Iles du Frioul
- Address:Marseille
- Admission:Free
Nature & Wildlife, Off-the-Beaten Path, Sailing, Sunrise / Sunset, Swim & Snorkel, Water Sports, Island
7:19 AM Sunday, May 27
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The Iles du Frioul is a collection of 4 islands off the coast of Marseilles. They are Pomègues, Ratonneau, If and Tiboulen. Until the 16th century they were largely uninhabited although visited by passing sailors needing a rest from trade or war. But in 1516, Francois the Ist visited Marseille and decided the islands were the perfect place for a fort to defend Marseille, hence the Ile d'If was developed as a fortress and later, prison.
From the 17th to the 19th century, they were used as a place of quarantine for people suspected of carrying plague or cholera. Sea birds and rare plants thrive on these tiny islands, each about 1.25 miles (2.5km) long, totalling 500 acres (200 hectares), which are sprinkled with the ruins of the old quarantine hospital, Hôpital Caroline and Fort Ratonneau (used by German troops during WWII).
In 1974, the small village of Port Frioul was established as a base for exploring the flora, fauna, beaches and clear-waters of the islands. It has restaurants and around 700 mooring points for boats.
Latest Reviews All Iles du Frioul Reviews »
You get many discounts, including free admission to several attractions. Because there is so much that you can access with this pass, it helps if you will be in Marseille for at least a day. The longer you're there, the more savings you can enjoy with this pass. Even though we weren't there for a full day, we still enjoyed this pass. At the tourism office where we exchanged our vouchers for our passes the representative was very friendly and informative. Continue Reading »
This is a must if you plan on seeing a bunch of museums. Each museum costs 4-10 euros, which really adds up. The tourist board where you redeem your voucher is right across the street from the port and easy to find. The pass does not include the main tour bus, however - just a discount. Continue Reading »
There is a regular ferry service to the Ile d'If. To visit the others look to hiring a private boat, or go by organized tour.
